means old people in Japanese. I just spent some time with them.
I almost didn't go to Generations today because I felt rather blah after class and wasn't even sure that the elderly we were visiting even cared that much - or if I cared for that matter. For the last few weeks, I've been going with the wrong mindset. Going because I said I would, but really just being tired and half listening to the discussions.
For some reason, today really touched me.
I realized that these people didn't just see us as volunteers coming in once a week, but rather friends they wanted to build a relationship with. Despite the generation gap, they were comfortable sharing their stories and their lives. I discovered that they have gone through sooooo many losses, but still could smile and laugh with us. Although I couldn't emphasize with them and was scared that I was asking sensitive questions, I admired them.
Even with their deteriorating eyesight, feeble body...
their family members and friends who have left this world...
their children not contacting them, their failed marriages....
they would laugh at old pictures and smile, recalling their childhood memories.
Just looking at them "hehehehe"-ing hysterically at a picture where a man didn't have his pants zippers up, made me laugh too. Memories and pictures have so much capability of bringing joy.
Their sincere thanks and eagerness for us to come to their potluck really touched me.
Uh oh, I have to go -_-
The end.
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